Creative entrepreneurs make bundle shops more than just thrift stores
Driven by changing consumer preferences that increasingly value unique, quality and environmentally friendly fashion, local second-hand clothing industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with operators introducing more modern, comfortable and exclusive shopping experiences.
KUALA SELANGOR - Bundle shops are no longer merely places for bargain hunters to search for affordable clothing but have evolved into lifestyle destinations and community spaces that are increasingly attracting people from various walks of life.
Driven by changing consumer preferences that increasingly value unique, quality and environmentally friendly fashion, local second-hand clothing industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with operators introducing more modern, comfortable and exclusive shopping experiences.
In the past, they were associated with piles of clothing and cluttered surroundings, but bundle shops are now adopting boutique-style concepts featuring neatly arranged retail spaces and carefully curated collections that reflect current fashion trends.
Among those embracing the transformation is Akiqlo Thrift Store at Puncak Alam, as its owner, Ahmad Kamal Ariffin Ismail, 44, wanted customers to enjoy a shopping experience comparable to that of a fashion boutique.
"We want customers to walk into the store and feel as though they are in a fashion boutique, not just a bundle shop. That is why we place great emphasis on layout, cleanliness and selecting collections that align with current fashion trends," he said.
Ahmad Kamal Ariffin said most of the clothing at his store is imported from Japan and undergoes a selection process, washing, ironing and quality inspection before being put on sale at prices starting from as low as RM10, depending on the type of apparel.
He said some collections are reworked based on the curated thrift concept to create a more modern and exclusive appearance, and his experience in the second-hand clothing business since 2019 had helped him to better understand customer preferences.
"From there, I learned what customers are looking for, how they choose clothing and the types of collections that receive positive response. That experience has greatly helped in expanding the business," he said.
Meanwhile, Airina Roslan, 30, who co-founded TempatKita together with Iffa Roslee, 28, said competition in the second-hand clothing industry is no longer centred solely on offering apparel at affordable prices, but increasingly on creating unique experiences that encourage customers to visit and spend time at their premises.
She said the concept introduced at TempatKita went beyond offering fashion collections that follow current trends, focusing instead on creating an environment that appeals to visitors from different backgrounds.
Airina said among the initiatives introduced are spaces for other entrepreneurs to operate businesses, including coffee kiosks, as well as a photo booth facility that allows visitors to capture memories during their visit.
"This concept creates opportunities for other entrepreneurs to share in the benefits and grow within the same business ecosystem. At the same time, we want customers to come not only to buy clothing, but to enjoy a more holistic experience with family and friends.
"That is why TempatKita is not just a thrift shop, but a community space that brings together various activities and experiences in one location," she said.
Airina said together with Iffa being her close friend, they aimed to create a vibrant atmosphere complemented by a selection of quality, clean and well-maintained clothing at TempatKita in Section 13, Shah Alam.
"Customer experience, the ambience of a premises and community-oriented elements have become increasingly important in ensuring bundle shops remain relevant and continue to grow in line with changing consumer lifestyles," she added. - BERNAMA
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